7 Ways to Follow (and Stick to) a Healthy Lifestyle
Do you struggle to lose the weight and keep it off? You’re not alone! Whether you’ve gone through a major life change like pregnancy, injury, or divorce, getting and staying in shape may be the last thing on your mind.
From intermittent fasting to paleo, quick fix, fad dieting may work for some, but not all. Instead, learn the healthy habits that’ll last a lifetime.
Here are 7 easy ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle:
- Set SMART Goals
Setting goals for yourself is an important first step to actually achieving them! The trick is to set SMART goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. For example, do you want to get in shape? A SMART goal could be to take a walk for 30 minutes, 3 times a week.
- Hoard Healthy Snacks
You’re less likely to stop at a convenience store for a candy bar or bag of chips when you have a healthy alternative. Store healthy snacks at your desk, in your purse, and in your car.
- Become a Savvy Shopper
Is the grocery store your biggest downfall? Many people run to the store in between daycare pickup, soccer practice, or before a big football game, but that could mean you’re hungry and tired and more likely to make unhealthy choices. To minimize temptation, never go to the store hungry! Instead, snack on a protein bar or meat jerky to hold you over until your next meal. Or what’s even better, do most of your shopping from the comfort of your own home! From dinners and entrees to condiments and desserts, you can buy almost anything online and at a great deal! Check out our regular sales that simply can’t be beat and join our email list to get exclusive offers.
- Make Exercise Fun
Exercise can be fun and something you might even look forward to! Whether it’s a walk in the park with your dog, a hike with a friend, or Zumba class, just get moving! Check out some of our favorite group classes. Can’t get out of the house? Some stay at home moms get creative by doing a few rounds up and down the stairs or jumping jacks in the living room.
- Slow it Down and Savor Each Bite
Our busy lives make it easy to inhale our food. But that can lead to overeating because your body doesn’t realize it’s full until it’s too late. Try to eat your meals in the lunchroom or at your dining room table surrounded by family or friends. Of course, there will be the days that you’re running from meeting to meeting and need to eat at your desk. In that case, put your fork down or take a sip of water after each bite. You’ll enjoy your food a lot more when you’re more mindful about what you’re eating.
- Learn How to Read a Menu
Don’t let a night out at a restaurant completely derail you. Check out the menu online beforehand so you have time to explore your options and research ingredients you’re unfamiliar with. If you’re worried there aren’t a lot of healthy options, make yourself a protein packed shake or smoothie beforehand then choose a lighter option like a soup or salad. If salads just aren’t your thing, a chicken or steak entrée will do, but replace the fries with a vegetable side and skip the bread and chips at the beginning of the meal.
- Allow Yourself to Cheat
If you deprive yourself of everything you love, then what’s the fun in that? Enjoy your life and allow yourself to cheat every once in a while. If you love a glass of red wine, then enjoy a glass once or twice a week. Or, when you take your kids out for ice cream, get a small serving for yourself. If you don’t allow yourself to enjoy what makes you happy, you’re more likely to binge later on.
Want more life hacks and weight loss tips? Check back for more on our blog.
- Nashua Nutrition
